Entering the MTC

The month before Alyssa left to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was crazy busy, wonderful, emotionally challenging and exciting all at the same time.  Alyssa and I were in full throttle from morning to night.  We shopped like crazy, ordering things online, going to stores to complete her missionary wardrobe, getting final paperwork done and at the same time, trying to find time to just spend time together and make the most of every second.  

We won't see Alyssa for 18 months, and 

THAT IS A LONG, LONG TIME!!

For a mother!

My mom and I took Alyssa out to her favorite pizza place, 

Pier 49!

We tried to do some of her favorite things that she won't get to do for a while.

Like go HIKING!

We also threw a party with her friends.

On Tuesday, September 1st, Alyssa was given a blessing by our Stake President and set apart as a missionary for the Lord Jesus Christ.  This was an extremely spiritual and strengthening experience.  

She got to put her pin in MONGOLIA!  

(she is the only Mongolian missionary from our stake)  

Actually there are only 25 American Mongolian missionaries!

Before Alyssa was set apart to be a missionary, she was instructed to be completely packed and ready to go for the next day!  As the obedient missionary that she is, she miraculously packed a closet full of clothes and a million other things, into three suitcases!!

Missionaries are given a companion that they are to stay with.  

Until she entered the MTC and was given a "real missionary companion",

 I was her companion!

We got up at 6:30am, went on a walk for our daily exercise, studied the scriptures individually and together and finished last minute details.  

Precious last moments with my daughter!

MTC day! 

Wednesday Sept. 2, 2015

We checked the kids out of school and we all went out to eat, then headed over to the Provo Temple to have some family time.  The Missionary Training Center is across the street from the Temple, so we were ready for our check in time. 

 

We took some pictures, then had a family prayer under a beautiful tree, and had

one last FAMILY GROUP HUG. 

 

We crossed the street, said our quick goodbyes and put her officially in the Lord's hands to guide and protect our beautiful daughter.

Hurrah, Hurrah, Hurrah for Israel!

She is so excited, and is VERY READY!!

When I came home from dropping Alyssa off, I found a very thoughtful gift basket and a bouquet of flowers on my doorsteps from my angel friends.  They knew this would be a hard day for me, and they sent their love and support.  

I am blessed!